Starting on November 22 for Shabbat services we will be using our new prayer books. We just purchased copies of Mishkan T’fillah, the prayer book published by the Central Conference of American Rabbis, an affiliate of the Union of Reform Judaism. Although new for us, it was published in 2007 and is used throughout the country is Reform congregations. My liturgy professor at Hebrew Union College, Rabbi Doctor Lawrence Hoffman, said that each generation should write their own prayer book to reflect their own values. The prayer book is a complete worship service including all the prayers prescribed for all our holidays except the High Holydays. The English readings reflect what Jews in the 21st Century are concerned with, including feminism, social justice, Zionism, distinctiveness, and human challenges. We are a diverse people and Mishkan T’fillah tries to appeal to everyone. It gives many choices on the page to look at, either the Hebrew, direct translation of the prayers or poetic musings on our tradition. It is book that can move every Jew to worship.

I understand change is hard and congregants become attached to what they are familiar with. I feel we should all give Mishkan T’fillah a try.  Come to services – that is the only way to embrace a new initiative. I will be explaining the book at least for the first month that we will be using it, in hopes that you will become comfortable with the new text. This is an exciting adventure for TSS. Please meet me at services and let us explore Mishkan T’fillah together.